**Granada Hills Family Creates Stunning 13-Foot Jurassic Park Display for Halloween**
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In Granada Hills, California, Rob and Kel Warner have taken their Halloween celebrations to new heights with the construction of a remarkable 13-foot Jurassic Park gate, which surpasses the height of their home. The family of five, including their three children, has worked tirelessly to create this awe-inspiring display, which draws the attention of visitors from across Southern California.
The Warners have a strong family tradition of celebrating Halloween. Since the age of 15, Rob has been crafting intricate Halloween decorations, and over the past 25 years, he has transformed his skills from simple yard decor to elaborate haunted house experiences. Kel, who is a full-time content creator, joins him in this annual endeavour, stating, “We go all out for Halloween every year. We’re the Halloween house in our neighbourhood and love having a show that people want to see.”
This year’s theme, inspired by their son Phoenix, who is about to turn 10, revolves around Jurassic Park. The seed for this idea was planted last Halloween when Phoenix discovered a Jurassic Park employee costume. Following the holiday, the family seized the opportunity to purchase the outfit on sale, setting the stage for their dinosaur-themed display.
Construction on the Jurassic Park display commenced in late August, with the family dedicating over 200 hours to its design and assembly. They received assistance from extended family members, particularly the children’s grandfathers, who used the project as an opportunity to teach hands-on skills. Kel remarked, “The kids help with the display under the direction of their dad and myself. They contribute ideas and even help with painting and assembling various parts.”
The total budget for the Halloween project has reached approximately £4,000, which includes new tools and a 3D printer, with wooden materials representing a significant portion of the costs. However, the Warners have managed to keep expenses in check by repurposing props and special effects from previous Halloween displays, leading to a more sustainable approach to their festivities.
Kel explained that creating an authentic portrayal of the iconic film posed challenges. “We are very detail-oriented people,” she stated. “It takes time and money to get the details correct.” The original *Jurassic Park*, directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1993, has become a cultural phenomenon, making the task of re-creating its elements all the more daunting.
The completed display features a stunning replica of the iconic Jurassic Park gates, which stand taller than their house and include impressive fake flame effects. These gates not only serve as the entryway to their Halloween party but have also become a popular spot for photographs among visitors. Additional elements include a recreated electric fence and a central projection screen, where a specially produced show brings key scenes from the film to life.
The family’s projection features a four-minute show that captures dramatic moments from the *Jurassic Park* franchise. Visitors will experience heart-pounding encounters as scenes unfold, complete with sound effects, lighting, and fog. “Guests will witness the park’s power failing, a projected T-Rex emerging, and an epic finale as the power returns,” Kel added.
The Warners aim to create short but impactful Halloween productions, each lasting no more than four to five minutes. Crowds regularly gather to witness the spectacle, not only on Halloween night but throughout the lead-up to the holiday. The family participates in the SoCal Haunt List, which helps local communities locate free Halloween attractions, resulting in visitors travelling from various regions to marvel at their creation.
“Our neighbours love the new display and have appreciated our past efforts,” Kel noted. She mentioned that the family has earned the nickname “The Halloween House” and regularly receives gratitude from passersby for their contributions to the festive spirit.
Kel has documented the family’s progress on TikTok, revealing an increase in foot traffic past their home as more people stop to admire the display. Their three children take great pride in being active participants in the creation process, sharing their enthusiasm with friends and family about their unique contributions.
Ultimately, the Warner family views their annual Halloween project as a cherished opportunity for bonding and skill-building. “I think everyone needs a hobby, and Halloween has always been something we love,” Kel reflected. “It brings people together and spreads joy with what we create. We feel proud and a bit surprised at the scale of it this year.”
As the Halloween season approaches, the Warner family continues to impress their community with their creativity and dedication, becoming a shining example of the joy that can be found in shared family traditions.